Whale Watching from Friday Harbor

Overview

The best orca whale watching is from Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, just an easy day trip adventure from downtown Seattle. The San Juan Islands are considered the "jewel" of the Pacific Northwest, located in the Puget Sound.

City: San Juan Islands

Sun 27 Apr

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $135.00

Make a reservation

Sun 27 Apr

Starting at $135.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Whale Watching Cruise

Local taxes

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For maximum safety children under 2 should be in a harness carrier strapped to a parent and remain in the cabin
"Special Limited" tour not recommended for child aged 13 and under
Restrooms are available on board the boat

What To Expect

San Juan Island

San Juan Island is considered one of the best place to view wild orca whales because the surrounding nutrient rich water of the Salish Sea. These nutrients draw all types of marine animals, including large marine mammals like orcas. Take this Whale watching tour and see orca whales, during peak season we have a 90-95% success rate of spotting orca, minke, humpback and gray whales. What is the best time to see orca whales? Anytime. They are out and about all day. Aside from whales, many other marine mammals like harbor seals and stellar sea lions, as well as various sea birds, bald eagles and some unique terrestrial mammals are all common sightings! You'll definitely come back with memories to last a lifetime! Enjoy the beauty of San Juan Island on an exclusive Whale Watch Cruise from Friday Harbor. Sail aboard the fast, new 55 foot MV Sea Lion (with windowed, heated cabin, which seats up to 24 guests). 40 or fewer guest aboard this comfortable boat with walk around deck.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (728)

Mark_S

Sep 2024

The pilot received a communication of an orca siting which was a good distance away, but they went for it. We were rewarded with a pair of orcas following each other, surfacing and resurfacing. It was very beautiful. I believe we got as close as 75 yds which was a wonderful view. I think they did everything they could to make the trip enjoyable. It would have been great even if we had not seen any orcas. the total trip was three hours and forty-five minutes which was little longer than normal because they wanted us to see the orcas. Dress warm.

mikaelad157

Sep 2024

I had a magical day on the water! Captain Gabe successfully found us some Biggs Killer Whales along with other beautiful wildlife sightings like stellar sea lions, harbor seals, harbor porpoises, and even a puffin!! Naturalist Lauren was highly knowledgeable and answered all our questions without skipping a beat. We got extremely lucky with a mostly empty boat and great conditions that added to the special experience aboard Sea Lion. I would recommend this company and whale watch tour to anyone looking to visit Friday Harbor!

jeanneo558

Sep 2024

Captain Gabe and Naturalist Max were wonderful guides! They were a great team and well suited in their respective roles. Gabe explained the safety rules well, and we felt comfortable during our whole experience. Max was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic when sharing about wildlife throughout our excursion. Both men displayed genuine pride in their jobs and had high expectations for an exciting adventure! Of course, we lucked out and spotted a pod of whales early on our trip! They continued to share highlights, facts and added to our experience as we dutifully followed the whales for the very best experience! The boat, gear and amenities met our expectations as well. We wholeheartedly recommend San Juan Safaris!!